The article discusses a significant moment during a Ministry of Justice meeting held shortly after the declaration of martial law in South Korea. Testimonies from key officials indicate that former Minister Park Sung-jae faced queries regarding the constitutionality of the martial law and the associated proclamation order. Specifically, evidence was presented in court on the interactions between Park and Justice Department officials, including a statement from a senior official who expressed concerns about the potential consequences in the wake of the martial law declaration.

Witnesses, including Won Jae-hyun, who was present at the meeting, recounted how Park seemed unsettled and sought legal guidelines or manuals relevant to the situation. Another official raised concerns about consulting constitutional law experts regarding the legality of the martial law declaration, but Park did not concur with the suggestion. Conversations during the meeting revealed underlying tensions, particularly regarding the potential implications of martial law for political governance and the authority of the National Assembly.

The absence of a clear response from Park during this critical meeting raises questions about decision-making within the Ministry of Justice amidst a state of emergency. The article suggests that Park's silence, rather than outright opposition or agreement, may indicate a reluctance to engage in a debate over the legality of martial law, thus leaving open the complexities surrounding governmental authority during times of crisis. These events have significant implications for interpretations of legal authority and the role of government officials under emergency conditions.